Christmas, we're glad to see you

"Joyous" would not be the first word that comes to mind when describing 2012.

The economy still stubbornly fought against a real recovery, as too many Americans were out of work or having trouble taking care of their families.

The nation was subjected to a divisive, lengthy and often ugly election campaign.

The scenes of the devastation wrought by Superstorm Sandy are still too fresh, and the rebuilding will take years. Many families will never be able to rebuild or replace what was lost.

There was the tension in the Middle East that seemed even worse than most years.

And we finished the year with horror at Sandy Hook Elementary School, which completely overwhelmed a stunned nation that has become almost inured to gun violence in recent years.

Thankfully, Christmas Day has arrived. It is always welcome, but particularly so this year.

Perhaps because there were so many other serious problems to be concerned with, the annual petty squabbling about Christmas-themed displays seemed to be toned down this year, at least in South Florida.

Instead, people seemed simply to want to embrace the Christmas season for what it is supposed to be — a time for peace and good will toward each other, a time for rebirth, a time for compassion, a time for faith, and a time for hope.

Christmas is a time to hold your loved ones close, to appreciate what you have, rather than dwelling on what you don't have.

Beyond the merriment and carols and gift-opening and wonderful aromas from the home-cooked meals in the kitchen, Christmas Day is a perfect time to be aware of all the goodness that is around you.

It is a great day to find joy in the smiles of your children and grandchildren, to relish their accomplishments, to be amazed at how they've grown in a year, to enjoy their squeals as they tear apart the wrapping paper in record time. It is a terrific time to visit with the parents and grandparents and aunts and uncles whom you haven't found enough time for during the year.

And it's a wonderful time to appreciate a serviceman or woman in your family, or neighborhood, who might be home for Christmas.

Yes, the gifts are great. But the love you have around you today is even better.